While we are aware of bamboo as a sustainable alternative to plastic what we wouldn’t have thought about is that with the right kind of innovation and resources the plant can also become a part of our daily wardrobe. Heelium, a footwear company that focuses on sustainable sports products, is bringing a unique range of sports gear in a world that is blinded by big brand names.
The brainchild of two sports enthusiasts, Prateek Sharma and Siddhartha Jain, who first crossed paths during their college days at IIT-Roorkee and then managed to stay in touch despite moving to different countries, Heelium was officially launched in July 2017. “Although the background work started in early 2017 itself,” the founders tell Homegrown. Their determination to combine their technical knowledge with their passion for sports was aided by a rather generous grant from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. This gave them access to facilities, test centres and all sorts of resources needed to come up with their first product — Bamboo Athletic socks.
The Bamboo Athletic socks are both eco-friendly, as they’re made from bamboo fibre, and safe. They not only protect the feet from bacteria and odour growth but also safeguard the heel and forefoot by absorbing impact during physical activities. As a fibre that’s more breathable, durable, and thermo-regulatory than cotton, the Bamboo Athletic socks are a pioneering effort by the founding duo.
Heelium’s flagship product is a running shoe made using customised technology that helps reduce impact and avoid injuries for runners who can’t afford high-end custom-fit running shoes like professional athletes. “Our focus is on elderly and overweight people who need better impact protection so that they can walk without worrying about injuries. It will also help people with foot abnormalities like flat feet, high arch etc. to improve their gait,” they tell us.
With the aim of bringing innovation, safety, and sustainability to athletic wear in India, which is mostly characterised by sophistication and exorbitant prices, Heelium is Prateek and Siddhartha’s attempt at venturing into the entrepreneurial space whilst generating awareness about the importance of safe, affordable, and sustainable athletic footwear in India.
Heelium is presently selling through online retailers like Amazon.
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